EP2603167B1 - Vorrichtung zur reduktion der spermienanzahl zur künstlichen besamung von rindern - Google Patents

Vorrichtung zur reduktion der spermienanzahl zur künstlichen besamung von rindern Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2603167B1
EP2603167B1 EP10855980.8A EP10855980A EP2603167B1 EP 2603167 B1 EP2603167 B1 EP 2603167B1 EP 10855980 A EP10855980 A EP 10855980A EP 2603167 B1 EP2603167 B1 EP 2603167B1
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Prior art keywords
semen
pipette
syringe
elongate
hollow
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French (fr)
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EP2603167A2 (de
EP2603167A4 (de
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Brad K. Stroud
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
    • A61D19/00—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A61D19/02—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation for artificial insemination
    • A61D19/027—Devices for injecting semen into animals, e.g. syringes, guns, probes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
    • A61D19/00—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
    • A61D19/00—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A61D19/02—Instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation for artificial insemination

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  • Dairy cattle bulls have been bred to sire females that produce the most milk. These desirable bulls are developed and raised on ranches that are typically referred to in the industry as "Bull Studs".
  • the dairy industry is very picky about the genetics of the bulls which produce the sperm used in conventional semen straws. Semen from these desirable bulls is collected at the Bull Stud and packaged in the frozen semen straws for sale to cattle owners and others.
  • Bull Studs in 2010, there were approximately 25 - 30 Bull Studs in the U.S. producing frozen semen straws for the dairy and beef industry. But market demand for semen straws from the top bulls exceeds the natural supply. (A bull can only produce so much sperm during the course of a year.).
  • sex-sorted straws contain a fraction of the number of sperm found in a conventional unsorted semen straw. For example, to deliver a straw with a 90% female offspring expectation it is current practice to place a minimum of 2.1 million sorted sperm in a straw. In addition, sorted semen may contain more sperm but have a reduced female offspring expectation.
  • the speed of the sorting process is inversely related to the accuracy of the machine's ability to sort by sex.
  • the minimum number of sperm suitable for use in conventional AI techniques is 2.1 million sperm with a 90% female offspring expectation; although this number is subject to change if the sorting technology improves.
  • less than 2.1 million sex-sorted sperm will be suitable for artificial insemination of a female, with a 90% female offspring expectation.
  • Sex sorted sperm are not always packaged in a straw with 2.1 million sperm.
  • the present patent application also by Dr. Stroud, does not promise increased conception rates. Instead, the present invention offers conception rates that are at least comparable to conventional AI techniques (For example, approximately 20 -40% in dairy cattle). The present invention will significantly reduce the number of sperm from desirable bulls used in each semen straw, allowing more cows to take advantage of a precious resource that is limited by natural production.
  • FIG. 1 is not to scale and is for illustrative purposes only for a reader that has never seen the actual apparatus.
  • This metal and plastic AI device has a non-disposable hollow metal barrel with a metal plunger sliding to and fro inside the hollow metal barrel and a disposable plastic sheath.
  • the distal end of the barrel has a receptacle sized to receive a semen straw.
  • Conventional semen straws are crimped on one end and have a cotton plug in the other end.
  • the straw is warmed and then the crimped end is cut.
  • the cotton plug end of the semen straw is placed in the receptacle of the conventional prior art AI device.
  • the metal plunger contacts the cotton plug.
  • This prior art metal and plastic non-disposable AI device and the semen straw are inserted into a disposable elongate plastic sheath.
  • the conventional AI instrument in Fig. 1 is referred to as a "metal and plastic" apparatus.
  • the cut end of the semen straw engages the plastic sheath, forming a seal to prevent semen leaks.
  • Prior art sheaths of this design are well known to those skilled in the art.
  • This prior art metal and plastic device is inserted into cow's reproductive organs. No diluent is used. Then the AI Technician pushes on the metal plunger which pushes the cotton plug through the semen straw and forces the semen out of the tip of the AI device.
  • the cotton plug is not injected into the cow because it is trapped by the seal on the plastic sheath. But the cotton plug does absorb some of the semen which is lost and not able to fertilize the female.
  • the present invention has a more simple solution, with a disposable non-toxic syringe connected to an elongate,metal, single use pipette, portions of which are inserted into the cow's reproductive organs.
  • the single use AI instrument is about (18 inches) 45,7 mm long, with an od of about (0.134 inches) 3.4 mm which is much easier to pass through the cervix of a heifer than the prior art metal and plastic AI instrument.
  • the elongate metal device of the present invention is hollow and there is no plunger like the conventional prior art AI instrument.
  • the AI device of the present invention does not require a plastic sheath, like the prior art.
  • the prior art metal and plastic AI device in Fig. 1 is used with a plastic sheath to keep the device sterile. Therefore, this conventional metal AI device can be used over and over by continually replacing the sheath for each cow.
  • the prior art metal and plastic AI device does not use diluent; it only injects semen.
  • the prior art metal and plastic AI device uses a disposable plastic sheath and therefore the metal part of the apparatus can be used over and over with different cows. In other words, the disposable plastic sheath keeps the metal part of the apparatus clean and able to be reused.
  • the metal pipette in the AI device of the present invention is contaminated on the outside by direct contact with the cow's reproductive tract and on the inside by the reduced sperm count semen. Therefore, the metal pipette of the present invention is contaminated after a single use and cannot be reused like a prior art metal and plastic AI device.
  • Bovine AI Technicians will sometimes try to inseminate several females with a single conventional semen straw, especially to save money.
  • Bovine AI Technicians will sometimes try to inject only a portion of a conventional straw in a female. This technique is thought to result in lower conception rates than the conventional rates discussed herein.
  • This prior art technique warms one conventional straw at a time. The portions of the semen not used in the first female must be used in a second female within about 20 minutes after thaw.
  • U.S. Patent No. 5,147,299 to Mendoza uses an illuminated vaginal speculum to insert an AI device.
  • the second Mendoza patent (No. 6,071,231 ) explains that the techniques taught in the first patent produce low conception rates.
  • the teachings of the second Mendoza patent were apparently designed to increase conception rates over the teachings in the first Mendoza patent.
  • U.S. Patent No. 6,071,231 to Mendoza is entitled "Device and Method for Artificial Insemination of Bovines and other Animals" ('231 Patent).
  • This device is best seen in Fig. 6 of the '231 Patent drawings.
  • the '231 Patent requires two syringes, and a balloon catheter.
  • An illuminated vaginal speculum is used to allow visual insertion into the cow's reproductive organs; rather than rectal palpation.
  • the present invention does not require an illuminated vaginal speculum for insertion into the cow. Instead, the AI apparatus of the present invention is inserted using rectal palpation.
  • the apparatus in the '231 Patent is inserted by sight, thus the need for an illuminated speculum, whereas the present invention is inserted by "feel".
  • the first Mendoza syringe is used to inflate and deflate the balloon catheter.
  • the second Mendoza syringe is used to inject a diluent for the purpose of pushing semen into the cow, as best seen in Fig. 3 herein.
  • the present invention uses one syringe instead of two because the present invention does not need a balloon catheter. Because of this construction, the present invention is sometimes referred to "catheter free".
  • the '231 Patent teaches use of a diluent such as 2.9% sodium citrate solution.
  • the '231 Patent recommends optimum amounts of semen and diluent for various sized animals; but the patent is silent on the volume of diluent for any animal. Because the '231 Patent is so cumbersome and requires the use of two syringes and a balloon catheter, it is not in wide use.
  • the present invention has a more elegant arrangement, with a single disposable non-toxic syringe connected to an elongate, metal, single use pipette.
  • U.S. pending patent applications serial number 11/829240 and 12/506,723 to Stroud disclose a disposable syringe connected to an elongate plastic pipette.
  • the plastic pipette must be rigid enough to allow a Technician to guide it through the three rings of the cervix, which requires a skilled Bovine AI Technician, especially in the case of a heifer. Without enough stiffness in the plastic pipette, the Technician a) may lose his/her ability to properly guide the pipette and potentially injures a valuable animal, b) can also result in incorrect placement of the semen in the reproductive tract and/or c) may also lose the ability to pass the pipette through the cervix.
  • the present invention discloses a single use, metallic, elongate pipette which does have sufficient stiffness to allow a Technician to properly guide the device through the three rings of the cervix.
  • the present invention uses a metal pipette to help guide the device through the cow's reproductive organs without injury to the cow or unnecessary delay in the procedure.
  • Stroud'240 and '723 also failed to recognize that some syringes are toxic to sperm and further, that some storage conditions could enhance or create toxicity in a syringe.
  • Prior art CN200998328 discloses a cow sperm delivery unit, consists of push rod, inner pipe, and outer pipe, the push rod is inserted into the inner pipe, which is inserted into the outer pipe, the front end of outer pipe is enclosed, the side of front end has the sperm flown hole, the outer pipe has the trapezoid inner hole; the length of this cow sperm delivery unit is 40CM-50CM.
  • This opening of outer pipe for cow sperm delivery unit is located aside, during delivering the sperm to the cow, the mucus in the gonopore is uneasy to enter into the sperm delivery unit and cause the sperm delivery pipe plugged, no back flow of sperm, effectively improve the pregnant rate of cow.
  • the present invention has several advantages as follows: First, the present invention uses a disposable, non-toxic syringe, unlike any of the prior art. Second, the present invention has a small od, unlike any of the prior art which makes it easier to insert into heifers. Third, the present invention uses semen with a reduced sperm count, unlike some of the prior art. Fourth, the present invention uses a stiff metal pipette which facilitates insertion, unlike Stroud which imagined a plastic pipette and unlike the conventional prior art AI instrument which uses a metal and plastic pipette.
  • the invention relates to a catheter free, speculum free instrument for artificial insemination of a female bovine according to claim 1. Further embodiments are disclosed in the dependent claims. Further disclosed but not within the scope of the claims is a method for artificial insemination. This procedure or method disclosed may require: a) semen with a reduced sperm count, b) a single, removable, disposable non-toxic syringe, c) a single use, hollow, elongate metal pipette, and d) a diluent.
  • Bovine AI Technicians are considered to be persons skilled in the art for purposes of this invention. Bovine AI Technicians typically are skilled individuals because it takes a deft touch to practice rectal palpation insertion techniques, especially with heifers. It also takes a strong constitution to repeatedly insert your arm into a cow's rectum day in and day out. The present invention may be used with or without super-ovulation.
  • Semen with a reduced sperm count can be obtained in at least four different ways.
  • One way is for the Bull Stud to fill each unsorted semen straw with a reduced quantity of sperm.
  • a second way is for the dairymen and/or Bovine AI Technician to use the "snip technique" discussed herein.
  • a third way to obtain reduced sperm count semen is from producers of sex sorted semen.
  • a fourth way is for a Bovine AI Technician to thaw a single straw of semen, mix with diluent, and inseminate two or more females.
  • use of reduced sperm count semen from a Bull Stud may produce comparable conception rates when compared with conventional techniques using unsorted semen straws with about 20 million sperm each. Freezing and thawing reduces sperm motility in bovine semen.
  • sperm count is discussed before freezing. Sales of reduced sperm count semen may be good for the Bull Stud because they can sell a larger number of higher priced semen straws, which produces more revenue, which can be invested in their bull breeding program to improve the gene pool.
  • Semen is sex sorted for use in the case of dairy cattle to produce more female offspring than males, because the females are much more valuable for milk production.
  • most sex sorted semen straws have about 2.1 million sperm.
  • Sex sorted semen straws with a reduced sperm count may also be beneficial to producers because decreased costs and increased revenues.
  • Sex sorted semen straws are presently packaged in 1 ⁇ 4 cc straws and are used in the U.S and around the world.
  • Non-toxic syringe as used herein means that the syringe is not toxic to bovine sperm.
  • diluent Any type of diluent may be used provided it is not hostile to bovine sperm. The volume of diluent used is left to the discretion of the Bovine AI Technician.
  • od of the AI instrument is approximately (0.134 inches) 3.4 mm and the od of the prior art metal and plastic AI instrument, shown in Fig. 1 , is approximately (0.165) inches 4.2 mm.
  • the od of the AI instrument of the present invention is approximately (0.031 inches) 0.8 mm less than the prior art metal and plastic AI instrument in Fig. 1 .
  • this may not sound like much of a difference, it makes a huge difference when heifers are being artificially inseminated. Because heifers have never given birth, they have a very, very tight cervix.
  • the thin and rigid metal pipette of the present invention makes it easier to AI heifers with semen having a reduced sperm count.
  • Bovines have two uterine horns with an ovary located proximate each horn. Typically, only one of these ovaries will produce an egg per heat cycle. Identification of the ovary that will produce the egg may be determined as follows: a) by an ultrasound examination of both ovaries conducted prior to AI or b) by an examination using rectal palpation of both ovaries prior to AI. These "Ovulation Examinations" may be optionally conducted prior to insemination. In one embodiment, the ovulation examination is required.
  • cow means a female bovine that has previously produced a calf.
  • 'heifer and "virgin heifer” as used herein, refers to a female bovine that has never produced a calf.
  • a first calf heifer refers to a bovine that has given birth to its first calf.
  • female as used herein includes both cows, first calf heifers and heifers.
  • semen with a reduced sperm count means a) semen from conventional straws produced by a Bull Stud with less than approximately 20 million non-sorted sperm, b) semen from conventional semen straws with approximately 20 million non-sorted sperm that are cut in several pieces to effectively reduce the number of sperm that are being used in each AI procedure c) sex sorted semen with a sperm count that is less than the amount contained in conventional packaging of sorted semen and d) sex sorted or unsorted semen from a single semen straw which is used to inseminate multiple females, thus effectively reducing the sperm count in the insemination solution delivered to each female.
  • ex sorted semen in conventional packages means: a) approximately 2.1 million sorted sperm per straw intended for heifers with a 90% female offspring expectation, b) approximately 5 million sorted sperm in a straw intended for use in a super ovulated female with a 90% female offspring expectation and c) other sorted semen straws sold in commercial quantities with a reduced sperm count from that of non-sorted semen.
  • conventional conception rates means a) using non-sorted semen, about 20% to about 40% in dairy cows, b) using non- sorted semen, about 50% to about 70% in beef cows and dairy heifers, c) using sex sorted semen, about 10% to about 30% in dairy cows, d) using sex sorted semen, about 30% to about 40% in beef cows, e) using sex sorted semen, about 40% to about 50% in dairy heifers, and f) using sex sorted semen about 40% to about 50% in beef heifers.
  • luer connectors include the traditional luer hub, the luer lock on the syringe and all sorts of other designs as shown in the above website including, connectors with barbs, threaded connectors, tapered connectors and others.
  • the term "luer connector” as used herein means all types of luer connectors included but not limited to a luer hub, a luer lock, threaded luer connectors, oiling luer hubs, barbed luer hubs, etc.
  • Fig. 1 is a section view of a prior art metal and plastic AI apparatus 20 that is in common use by most Bovine AI Technicians in the U.S. This apparatus is inserted into the cow using rectal palpation techniques, well known to those skilled in the art.
  • a metal plunger 22 slides to and fro inside the elongate metal barrel 24 of this AI apparatus.
  • finger tabs 26 are formed on the proximal end of the metal barrel to make it easier to operate the metal plunger.
  • a receptacle 28 is formed in the distal end of the metal barrel and is sized to receive either a (1 ⁇ 2 cc) 0.5 ml semen straw and/or a (1 ⁇ 4 cc) 0.25 ml semen straw. Sex sorted semen is loaded into (1 ⁇ 4 cc) 0.25 ml semen straws on a worldwide basis. Outside the U.S, unsorted semen is also loaded into (1 ⁇ 4 cc) 0.25 mm straws. In the U.S., unsorted semen is loaded into (1 ⁇ 2 cc) 0.5 mm semen straws.
  • a (1 ⁇ 2 cc) 0.5 mm semen straw 30 is inserted into the receptacle of the metal barrel to a metal shoulder 31 where the semen straw stops.
  • the semen straw 30 has a cotton plug 29 on one end. This is the end that is inserted into the AI instrument and is contact with the metal plunger 22.
  • An elongate disposable plastic sheath 32 has a proximal and distal end. This sheath 32 fits over the elongate metal barrel 24 and the semen straw 30.
  • the disposable plastic sheath has a tapered tip 34 formed on the distal end to facilitate insertion into the cow's reproductive organs.
  • the interior wall of the plastic sheath 36 seals the distal end of the plastic semen straw 30 to prevent semen from leaking back into the AI instrument 20.
  • the proximal end of the elongate disposable plastic sheath is split in half, not shown, for about (an inch) 2.5 cm or so to facilitate fitting over an enlarged taper 40 formed on an outside surface of the elongate metal barrel proximate the finger tabs.
  • a donut shaped slide 42 fits over the elongate disposable plastic sheath to mechanically grip the sheath against the taper on the outside surface of the elongate metal barrel. The purpose of the donut shaped slide is to keep the elongate disposable plastic sheath in place on the metal barrel during insertion and withdrawal from the cow's reproductive organs.
  • Fig. 2 is a cut-a-way view of a prior art apparatus 50 disclosed in U. S. Patent No. 6,071,231 to Mendoza .
  • this device uses an illuminated speculum 52 to visually insert the apparatus in a cow 54.
  • This apparatus uses two syringes. The first syringe 56 is used to inflate and deflate a balloon catheter 58 and a second syringe 60 is used to inject diluent and semen into the cow.
  • the Bovine AI Technician uses the lighted speculum 52 to open the animal's vagina 62 and view the interior.
  • the apparatus 50 is pressed part way into the cervix 64, and the balloon catheter 58 is inflated to form a seal with the cervix.
  • the dilution fluid is forced out of the second syringe 60, hopefully pushing the semen sample and diluent into the uterus 66.
  • Fig. 3 is an enlarged section view of the distal end 68 of the prior art Mendoza apparatus 50 of Fig. 2 with the balloon catheter 58 shown in the inflated position.
  • Figs. 2 and 3 are reproductions of figures from U.S. Patent No. 6,071,231 .
  • Fig. 3 shows the ejection of semen and diluent from ejection ports or orifices 70 in tip 72. Multiple ejection ports 72 are positioned at the apex and on lateral sides of tip 72. Although one port may be sufficient, multiple ports are preferable.
  • the tip 72 may be configured as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,147,299 .
  • a tube 78 connects the first syringe 56, shown in the proceeding figure, to the balloon catheter 58. The first syringe 56 is used to inflate and deflate the balloon catheter 58.
  • Fig. 4 is a section view of a prior art apparatus 90 disclosed in U.S. patent application 12/506,723 to Stroud .
  • This device is inserted into the bovine using rectal palpation of the uterus which is the standard technique used in the U.S. for AI of all bovines.
  • the Bovine AI Technician's hand 92 is inserted into to the rectum of the cow, as shown.
  • This rectal palpation technique is well known to those skilled in the art.
  • This apparatus uses one syringe 96 to inject diluent and semen into a bovine, the semen coming from a semen straw having a conventional sperm count.
  • a conventional syringe 96 with an elastomeric plunger is in fluid communication with PLASTIC pipette 98.
  • the syringe is connected to the plastic pipette by a connector 100.
  • Fig. 5 is a perspective view the AI instrument of the present invention generally identified by the numeral 101.
  • the instrument 101 is inserted into the bovine using rectal palpation techniques well known to those skilled in the art.
  • the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102 is disconnected from the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106.
  • the syringe has a luer lock 104 is formed on the distal end, or some other form of luer connector.
  • the hollow, elongate metal pipette has a proximal end 107 which may be formed into a luer hub 108 or some other type of luer connector.
  • the distal end of the pipette 109 may be formed into a generally rounded tip 110. At least one outlet port 112 is formed proximal the tip 110.
  • the luer lock 104 and the luer hub 108 may be disconnected as shown in this figure or connected as shown in the next figure.
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of Fig. 5 wherein the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102 is connected to the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106.
  • the luer hub 108 or some other type of luer connector on the pipette 106 is inserted into the luer lock 104 or some other type of mating luer connector on the syringe 102 and these components are gentlyrotated in opposite directions until they lock together and form a seal.
  • the design and shape of the luer hub and the luer lock are known.
  • Fig. 7 is a cross-section drawing along the line 7-7 of Fig. 6 of the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102 of the present invention connected to the proximal end 107 of the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106.
  • diluent and semen have been aspirated into the disposable, non-toxic syringe, forming an insemination solution 114.
  • the syringe plunger 120 is pushed by the Bovine AI Technician, the insemination fluid flows from the syringe, through the hollow, elongate metal pipette and out the at least one outlet port into the bovine.
  • Fig. 8 is a cross-section enlargement along the line 8-8 of Fig. 6 of the distal end 109 of the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106.
  • the tip 110 is rounded and has two transverse outlet ports, 112 and 116, respectively. These outlet ports allow an insemination solution to flow from the syringe, through the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106, out the two opposing transverse outlet ports and into the bovine.
  • the luer hub 108 or some other type of luer connector, on the pipette 106 and the luer lock 104 or some other type of mating luer connector on the syringe 102 are a means to achieve a fluid tight connection between the distal end 118 of the single, disposable non-toxic syringe 102 and the proximal end 107 of the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106 to allow the insemination solution 114 in the syringe 102 to flow from the single, disposable non-toxic syringe 106 through the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106 and out the at least one outlet port 112 into the female's uterus.
  • Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment 152 of the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106 connected to the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102 by flexible tubing 130.
  • the tubing may be formed from any number of elastomers, provided that they are non-toxic to bovine sperm.
  • a luer slip 132 or some other type of luer connector is formed on the distal end 118 of the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102.
  • the proximal end 131 of the tubing 130 is sized and arranged to fit over and seal against the luer slip 132, as shown.
  • the distal end 136 of the tubing is sized and arranged to fit over and seal against the proximal end 138 of the pipette 106.
  • the proximal end 138 of the pipette does not have a luer hub. Rather, it is a hollow tube of generally constant diameter from the proximal end 138 to the tip 110.
  • the insemination solution flows from the disposable non-toxic syringe, through the non- toxic tubing, through the metal pipette and out the at least one outlet port.
  • the luer slip 132 or some other type of luer connector on the syringe 102, the proximal end 131 of the flexible tubing 130, the distal end 136 of the flexible tubing 130 and the proximal end 138 of the pipette 106 are a means to achieve a fluid tight connection between the distal end of the single, disposable non-toxic syringe 102 and the proximal end 138 of the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106 to allow the insemination solution 114 in the syringe 102 to flow from the single, disposable non- toxic syringe 102 through the hollow, elongate metal pipette 106 and out the at least one outlet port 112 into the female's uterus.
  • Fig. 10 is an enlarged section view of an alternative embodiment of the distal end 109 of the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106.
  • the distal end 109 of the pipette 106 is formed into an open bore 146.
  • This alternative embodiment is not preferred, as it may entrap debris while passing through the bovine vagina and for other reasons.
  • Fig. 11 is another alternative embodiment of the distal end 109 of the hollow, elongate, metal pipette 106.
  • the tip 110 is formed into a smooth rounded shape to facilitate easy passage through the bovine.
  • At least one transverse outlet port 112 is formed proximate to the tip 110.
  • Fig. 12 is a cross-section of an adapter 150 and (1 ⁇ 2 cc) 0.5 ml semen straw 148 connected to the disposable, non-toxic syringe 102.
  • the purpose of the adapter is to facilitate aspiration of the semen from the semen straw 148 into the disposable, non- toxic syringe 102.
  • the disposable, non-toxic syringe, the adapter and the elongate hollow, metal pipette may be packaged and sold as a kit to Bovine AI Technicians, dairies and others.
  • the present various embodiments may be packaged in a kit.
  • the components of the apparatus in Fig. 9 may be sold as a kit.
  • the components shown in Fig. 6 may be sold as a kit.
  • Arrangements of various components from various embodiments may be sold as a kit.
  • An ovulation examination prior to insemination may be included. Using ultrasound technology the ovulating ovary may be identified prior to insemination. After the ultrasound, using the present invention, the insemination solution may be pumped from the syringe through the hollow, elongate, metal pipette into only one uterine horn, e.g. the horn that will act as a conduit for sperm to fertilize the egg.
  • the tip of the hollow, elongate, metal pipette must be inserted past the body of the uterus and into the appropriate uterine horn that acts as a conduit to transport sperm to the ovulated egg, thereby concentrating most of the sperm into the ovulating horn.
  • the vet or other technician may manually palpate the ovaries to determine which will ovulate. After this manual ovulation examination, most of the diluent and sperm may be injected into the horn that acts as a conduit to transport sperm to the ovulated egg achieving at least conventional conception rates.
  • the Bull Stud reduces the sperm count in each straw to less than 20 million sperm. For example, each reduced sperm count semen straw could have approximately 15 million sperm or less. These reduced sperm count semen straws are then frozen in a conventional manner; well known to those skilled in the art. These reduced sperm count semen straws are sold by the Bull Studs to dairy farms and others.
  • a hundred female bovines or more may be artificially inseminated on a given day by a trained Bovine AI Technician.
  • Room Temperature for this procedure or method is defined as between about (68°) 20°C to about (80° F) 26.6°C and optimally about (74° F) 23.3°C.
  • the Technician lays30 out at least one multi-dose bag of diluent, some disposable non-toxic syringes and some hollow, elongate metal pipettes.
  • any syringe would be suitable for use in this invention. However, experimental testing proved otherwise. Some syringes are produced with elastomers and/or lubricants that are harmful to sperm. Some syringes that are not harmful to sperm as originally produced may become harmful by being stored in a hot warehouse above about (95° F) 35°C. Applicant has determined that syringes that are toxic to sperm are not suitable for use in this invention with reduced sperm count semen straws. Applicant recommends use of Norm-Ject® disposable syringes available from Air-Tite Products Co., Inc.
  • HSW Norm-Ject® disposable syringe may also be suitable for use in the practice of this invention, if and only if they have not been stored in a hot warehouse. (Other syringes, unknown to applicant, may also be suitable for use in this invention, provided that they are non- toxic to bovine sperm.).
  • Air-Tite represents on its website (www.air-tite-shop.com) that the Norm-Ject disposable syringe is latex free, contains no rubber, no silicone oil, styrene or DEHP and are DNA free.
  • the website further states: "These syringes are the choice for any situation needing an inert, non-reactive syringe. Because of their composition these Norm-Ject® disposable syringes are indicated for nuclear medicine, amniocentisis, IVF, embryo-transfer, chromatography and many laboratory procedures.
  • non-toxic syringe as used herein means a disposable Norm-Ject® disposable syringe, a HSW Norrn-Ject® disposable syringe and or any other syringe that is latex free, contains no rubber, no silicone oil, styrene, DEHP and is DNA free.
  • single, disposable, non-toxic syringe means any of the non-toxic syringes discussed above that a) contain a dose of insemination solution for a single bovine, and/or b) a larger non-toxic syringe that contains multiple does of insemination solution for multiple cows.
  • An automatic syringe including, draw off syringes and/or self filling syringes such as those from Allflex USA, Inc. located at the DFW Airport in Texas (see www.allflexusa.com) may be used but are not recommend because of contamination concerns.
  • a repeating syringe such as those also available from Allflex mentioned above, may be used, but is not recommended because of contamination concerns.
  • the Bovine AI Technician may select any of several know diluents for use in this procedure including: buffered saline, various commercially available embryo flush solutions, various commercially available extenders used in cryopreversation of semen and other products or other solutions not identified herein may also prove useful provided they have a proper pH, osmolarity and are properly buffered to dilute and support the life of the sperm.
  • the pH of the diluent is typically about 7 to about 7.4 and the osmolarity is typically about 280 to about 300 mOsm/L.
  • embryo flush solutions that may be suitable including: Syngro Holding Medium, Vigro Complete Flush Solution, Vigro Holding Plus, Vigro Rinsing Solution all available from Bioniche Animal Health of Belleville, Ontario, Canada, (www.bionicheanimalhealtyh.com).
  • Triladyl an extender used in cryopreservation of bull semen is not a suitable diluent because it also contains the cryoprotectant glycerol which is toxic at some concentrations to sperm at temperatures that support cell function.
  • the semen extender disclosed in U.S. Patent 6,368,786 also contains glycerol which means that it is likewise not suitable.
  • Other semen extenders such as Biladyl®, Fraction A, also from Minitube of America in Verona, Wisconsin (www.minitube.com) does not contain a cryoprotectant or glycerol and may be. Any diluent that is not toxic to bovine sperm or the cow's reproductive system may be suitable.
  • the diluent may be contained in disposable plastic bags such as those found in hospitals holding Ringer's solution, etc.
  • the reduced sperm count semen straws are kept frozen under liquid nitrogen in a Dewar flask until ready to use. (Bull Studs in the U. S. use (1 ⁇ 2 cc) 0.5 ml semen straws that are crimped on one end with a cotton plug on the other end. The semen is in between the crimped end and the cotton plug on the other end.).
  • the Bovine AI Technician may keep the bags of diluent in a storage device which holds the diluent at Room Temperature, to expedite the process.
  • the Technician fills one of the disposable syringes with the diluent.
  • an adapter is then connected to the luer hub on the syringe. The Technician warms a reduced sperm count frozen straw of semen in warm water at a temperature of about (95°) 35°C to about (98° F) 36.6°C for at least about 15 seconds.
  • the crimped tip of the reduced sperm count semen straw is cut with a pair of scissors and the cut end is placed over the adapter.
  • the syringe, adapter and reduced sperm count semen straw are held vertically with the cotton plug farthest away from the earth. Then the cotton plug is cut off the straw, which allows the semen to drain by gravity into the diluent in the syringe or in the alternative the semen may be aspirated from the semen straw into the diluent in the syringe.
  • the adapter and the used semen straw are removed from the syringe.
  • An elongate, metal, single use pipette is connected to the luer hub on the syringe. Applicant recommends that that the elongate, metal, single use pipette be sterile, but this is not essential to the practice of the invention.
  • the distal end of the pipette is inserted by the Technician into the cow's vagina, past the three rings of the cervix to the body of the uterus, using rectal palpation.
  • the Bovine AI Technician then pushes the plunger of the disposable syringe which pumps the diluent and the semen out of the syringe, through the single use elongate metal pipette and into the body of the uterus.
  • the syringe is disposed of and the single use metal pipette may be destroyed or it may be sterilized and reused, provided it is kept in a sterile condition until the next use. If the price of the metal pipette is low enough, it is likely that the metal pipettes will be discarded for recycling.
  • the bovine reproductive tract from posterior to anterior, has a vagina, a cervix, a uterine body, two uterine horns, two fallopian tubes, and two ovaries.
  • a prior art AI procedure the contents of a single straw containing about 20 million non-sorted sperm is placed through the vagina, through the cervix and into the uterine body, which is in fluid communication with both uterine horns.
  • Approximately half of the sperm are naturally shunted to the left uterine horn and half to the right.
  • Sperm that naturally shunts to the left horn has a chance to fertilize an ovum if it is released from the left ovary.
  • Sperm naturally shunted to the right horn has a chance to fertilize an ovum if it is released from the right ovary. Only one ovary releases an egg during each heat cycle.
  • a second way to practice the present invention is using the "snip technique" not within the scope of the claims using a conventional semen straw with a) about 20 million unsorted sperm in each straw or b) with a sex sorted straw.
  • First the Bovine Technician pours a small bath of liquid nitrogen.
  • a frozen semen straw is removed from a Dewar flask and is placed in the small bath of liquid nitrogen. While under the nitrogen bath, the Bovine AI Technician cuts off a piece of the frozen straw, thus mechanically reducing the sperm count in the piece that has been cut off from the main body of the straw.
  • the frozen portion that has been cut off is then placed in a sterile test tube filled with diluent, at about (95° F) 35°C to about (98° F) 36.6°C.
  • the balance of the straw that is still in the small bath of liquid nitrogen is removed and quickly placed back in the Dewar flask.
  • the semen has been thawed and released into the insemination solution with the diluent in the test tube.
  • the Bovine AI Technician then aspirates the insemination solution from the test tube into the single, disposable non- toxic syringe, to which additional diluent may be added, at the discretion of the Bovine AI Technician.
  • the Bovine AI Technician can draw a larger aliquot of diluent into the syringe from a multi-dose bag and then aspirate the insemination solution from the test tube, containing the thawed semen with a reduced sperm count.
  • the "snip technique” uses a reduced number of sperm, while at least maintaining comparable conception rates to conventional AI procedures using approximately 20 million sperm per cow in the case of non-sex sorted semen.
  • the type of diluent and the amount of diluent are left to the discretion of the Bovine AI Technician. This may include as an option an Ovulation Examination prior to insemination, as discussed herein.
  • a third way to practice the present invention not within the scope of the claims is with sex sorted semen straws having a reduced sperm count. Semen is sorted by sex, in the case of dairy cattle to produce more female offspring which are much more valuable for milk production. Each sex sorted semen straw contains a fraction of the amount of semen found in a conventional non-sorted semen straw, as previously discussed. As of the filing dated of this application, most sex sorted semen straws have about 2.1 million sperm each. Sex sorted semen straws with a reduced sperm count will have even less sperm than these conventionally packaged straws.
  • Sex sorted semen straws are packaged in (1 ⁇ 4 cc) 0.25 ml straws and are used in the U.S and around the world. Sex sorted semen is available from Sexing Technologies of Navasota, Texas, and some but not all Bull Studs. This may include as an option, an Ovulation Examination prior to insemination, as discussed herein.
  • a fourth way to use reduced sperm count semen not within the scope of the claims is for a Bovine AI Technician to thaw a single straw of semen, mix with diluent, and concurrently inseminate two or more females.
  • a single straw of semen is warmed and mixed with diluent to form an insemination solution.
  • This solution is then drawn into the AI instrument of the present invention.
  • two or more females are inseminated with portions of this insemination solution.
  • This "Single Straw Dilution Technique" may be used with unsorted semen and with sorted semen. This may include as an option an Ovulation Examination prior to insemination, as discussed herein.
  • the Bovine AI Technician and/or a vet or other qualified person conducts an examination of the female to determine which ovary will produce the egg.
  • This Ovulation Examination of the ovaries could be conducted by ultrasound or the examination could be conducted by manual rectal palpation of the ovaries.
  • insemination solution is positioned in a single, disposable, non-toxic syringe. Fluid communication is established between the single, disposable, non-toxic syringe and a hollow, elongate, metal pipette as shown in Fig. 6 or Fig. 9 or by some other means.
  • the hollow, elongate, metal pipette is guided using rectal palpation techniques through the female's vagina, cervix, and uterus and into the uterine horn that will act as a conduit to transport sperm to fertilize the egg, as previously determined by the ovulation examination.
  • Proper placement of the pipette in the correct uterine horn is accomplished without an illuminated speculum or a balloon catheter. Use of this procedure should result in increased conception rates when compared with conventional conception rates, discussed herein.
  • this technique may be used with two semen straws having a conventional sperm count. This two straw approach may be beneficial for some cows.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)
  • Media Introduction/Drainage Providing Device (AREA)
  • Agricultural Chemicals And Associated Chemicals (AREA)
  • Apparatus Associated With Microorganisms And Enzymes (AREA)
  • Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Micro-Organisms Or Cultivation Processes Thereof (AREA)

Claims (4)

  1. Katheterfreies, spekulumfreies Instrument (101) zur künstlichen Besamung eines weiblichen Rindes mit einem Gebärmutterhals und einer Gebärmutter, wobei das Instrument so bemessen und angeordnet ist, dass es ein flüssiges Verdünnungsmittel und Sperma aufnimmt, wobei das Instrument (101) das Folgende umfasst:
    eine einzelne, wegwerfbare Spritze (102), die für Rindersperma nicht giftig ist, wobei die Spritze ein proximales Ende und ein distales Ende aufweist, wobei die einzelne, wegwerfbare Spritze so bemessen und angeordnet ist, dass sie das flüssige Verdünnungsmittel und Sperma aufnimmt;
    eine hohle, längliche Pipette (106) mit einem proximalen Ende (107; 138) und einem distalen Ende (109) mit mindestens einer Auslassöffnung (112, 116), die in der Nähe des distalen Endes (109) ausgebildet ist, wobei die hohle, längliche Pipette (106) einen Außendurchmesser von weniger als 4,2 mm aufweist; und
    Mittel (104, 108; 132, 130), um eine fluiddichte Verbindung zwischen dem distalen Ende der einzelnen, wegwerfbare Spritze (102) und dem proximalen Ende (107; 138) der hohlen, länglichen Pipette (106) zu erreichen, um es dem flüssigen Verdünnungsmittel und dem Sperma in der Spritze zu ermöglichen, von der einzelnen, wegwerfbaren Spritze (102) durch die hohle, längliche Pipette (106) und aus der mindestens einen Auslassöffnung (112, 116) heraus zu fließen,
    dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die hohle, längliche Pipette (106) eine steife Metallpipette und ihr distales Ende (109) zu einer glatten, abgerundeten Spitze (110) geformt ist, um einen leichten Durchgang durch den Gebärmutterhals des Weibchens und in die Gebärmutter zu erleichtern, wobei die mindestens eine Auslassöffnung eine transversale Auslassöffnung (112, 116) ist, die in der Nähe zu der Spitze (110) ausgebildet ist.
  2. Instrument nach Anspruch 1, wobei die mindestens eine transversale Auslassöffnung (112, 116) mindestens eine transversale Öffnung in der Nähe des distalen Endes (109) der hohlen, länglichen Metallpipette (106) aufweist, um es der einzelnen, wegwerfbaren Spritze zu ermöglichen, mindestens einen Teil des Verdünnungsmittels und des Spermas durch die hohle, längliche Metallpipette (106) und aus der mindestens einen Auslassöffnung (112, 116) zu pumpen.
  3. Instrument nach Anspruch 1, wobei die hohle, längliche Metallpipette (106) einen Außendurchmesser von etwa 3,4 mm hat.
  4. Instrument nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Mittel zum Erreichen einer fluiddichten Verbindung zwischen dem distalen Ende der Spritze (102) und dem proximalen Ende (107) der hohlen, länglichen Metallpipette (106) ein flexibler Schlauch (130) ist, wobei ein Luer-Verbinder (132) an dem distalen Ende (118) der Spritze (102) ausgebildet ist, wobei ein proximales Ende (131) des Schlauchs (130) so bemessen und angeordnet ist, dass es über den Luer-Verbinder (132) passt und gegen diesen abdichtet, und ein distales Ende (136) des Schlauchs (130) so bemessen und angeordnet ist, dass es über das proximale Ende (138) der Pipette (106) passt und gegen dieses abdichtet, wobei die Pipette ein hohles Rohr mit im Allgemeinen konstantem Durchmesser von dem proximalen Ende (138) bis zu der Spitze (110) davon ist.
EP10855980.8A 2010-08-10 2010-08-10 Vorrichtung zur reduktion der spermienanzahl zur künstlichen besamung von rindern Active EP2603167B1 (de)

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AU2010359044A1 (en) 2013-02-28
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USRE48283E1 (en) 2020-10-27
US20130289403A1 (en) 2013-10-31
AU2010359044B2 (en) 2015-04-30
BR112013002918B8 (pt) 2021-01-12
BR112013002918B1 (pt) 2021-01-05
BR112013002918A2 (pt) 2017-11-14
EP2603167A4 (de) 2017-11-08
CN103327934A (zh) 2013-09-25
JP5689968B2 (ja) 2015-03-25
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